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28.07.2024 – Malachi Chapter 2 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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July 28, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Malachi Chapter 2
1 And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you.
2 If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the Lord of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart.
3 Behold, I will corrupt your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, even the dung of your solemn feasts; and one shall take you away with it.
4 And ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you, that my covenant might be with Levi, saith the Lord of hosts.
5 My covenant was with him of life and peace; and I gave them to him for the fear wherewith he feared me, and was afraid before my name.
6 The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips: he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity.
7 For the priest’s lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts.
8 But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the Lord of hosts.
9 Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law.
10 Have we not all one father? hath not one God created us? why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our fathers?
11 Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in Israel and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of the Lord which he loved, and hath married the daughter of a strange god.
12 The Lord will cut off the man that doeth this, the master and the scholar, out of the tabernacles of Jacob, and him that offereth an offering unto the Lord of hosts.
13 And this have ye done again, covering the altar of the Lord with tears, with weeping, and with crying out, insomuch that he regardeth not the offering any more, or receiveth it with good will at your hand.
14 Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the Lord hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.
15 And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.
16 For the Lord, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the Lord of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.
17 Ye have wearied the Lord with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied him? When ye say, Every one that doeth evil is good in the sight of the Lord, and he delighteth in them; or, Where is the God of judgment?
King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary
Rebuke Against the Priests (Verses 1-9)
In this section, the Lord, through the prophet Malachi, directly addresses the priests, who bear a special responsibility as the spiritual leaders of the people. The priests have failed to give due honor to God’s name, leading the people astray. They are admonished to heed and embrace God’s command, or else the Lord will turn their blessing into a curse.
Verse 3 is particularly vivid and striking: the Lord threatens to smear the dung of their festival sacrifices on their faces. This emphasizes the abhorrence of their failure and the necessity for purification and sanctification. The covenant with Levi (verse 4) is described as a covenant of life and peace, based on fear and reverence for God. The priests are supposed to be teachers of the truth, but they have strayed from the path and led many into sin.
Against Marriages with Pagan Women and Divorce (Verses 10-16)
Verses 10-16 address the social and moral transgressions of the Israelites, particularly regarding marriages with pagan women and the practice of divorce. The prophet reminds them that all people have the same Creator and that despising and desecrating the covenant is a grave sin. Judah is accused of unfaithfulness, as they defile holy things and engage with the daughters of foreign gods.
The Lord points out that such actions lead to his abhorrence and that those who commit these deeds will be excluded from the community. The altar of the Lord is covered with tears (verse 13), highlighting the emotional and spiritual distress of the people affected by their sins and their consequences. Divorce is described as an act of violence and betrayal, and God calls for men not to despise or abandon the wives with whom they have made the marriage covenant.
God’s Judgment is Coming Soon (Verse 17)
In the final verse of this chapter, the impatience and misunderstanding of the people towards God’s judgment are addressed. The people accuse God of promoting evil and ask where the God of justice is. These accusations anger the Lord, as they question His righteousness and holiness.
Summary
Malachi Chapter 2 is a strong admonition to the spiritual leaders and the people of Israel. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and reverence towards God and His commandments. The priests and the people are called out for their sins, and it is made clear that their failures have severe consequences. The call to repentance and the warning of impending judgment are meant to bring the people to their senses and lead them back to a life in accordance with God’s will.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 51: The Light of Life
This chapter is based on John 8:12-59; John 9.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction: Jesus as the Light of the World (John 8:12)
Jesus declares in the temple that He is the light of the world and promises that those who follow Him will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life. This statement is made during the Feast of Tabernacles, where large lamps in the temple courtyard illuminate Jerusalem and remind the people of the pillar of fire that guided Israel in the wilderness. Jesus uses this symbol to highlight His mission as a spiritual light meant to illuminate the darkness of the world.
The Significance of Light in the Bible
Light is a recurring symbol in the Bible for God’s presence and revelation. From the light of creation to the pillar of fire that guided Israel in the wilderness and the light that accompanied the dedication of Solomon’s temple, light stands for God’s guidance and proximity. Jesus, as the light of the world, embodies God’s essence and His relationship with humanity. He is the true light that enlightens every person (John 1:9).
Jesus and Abraham (John 8:56-58)
Jesus emphasizes His eternal existence and His relationship with Abraham, which the Pharisees perceive as presumptuous. He explains that Abraham rejoiced at the prospect of Jesus’ day. By saying, “Before Abraham was, I am,” Jesus claims divine existence and identity, which the Pharisees see as blasphemy and therefore want to stone Him.
The Healing of the Man Born Blind (John 9)
In John 9, Jesus heals a man who was born blind. This healing demonstrates that God’s works are revealed through Jesus. The disciples and the Pharisees inquire about the cause of the blindness, but Jesus shifts the focus to the outcome: the revelation of God’s power and grace. This healing occurs on the Sabbath, prompting the Pharisees to again condemn Jesus as a lawbreaker.
The Pharisees’ Reaction
The Pharisees attempt to deny the miracle and intimidate the healed man and his parents. However, the formerly blind man bravely defends Jesus and points to the obvious divine origin of his healing. This defense leads to his expulsion from the synagogue. Jesus seeks him out and fully reveals Himself to him, whereupon the man worships Jesus as the Son of Man.
Spiritual Blindness of the Pharisees
Jesus uses the healing of the man born blind to highlight the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees. They claim to see, but they reject the true light that Jesus offers. Their self-righteousness and pride prevent them from recognizing the truth, thus their sin remains.
Summary
Chapter 51 underscores the profound significance of Jesus’ declaration, “I am the light of the world.” Jesus brings not only physical but also spiritual light into the world, revealing God’s truth and saving people from the darkness of sin. The healing of the man born blind serves as a practical example of Jesus’ mission and the necessity of accepting spiritual light. The Pharisees, however, remain trapped in their self-righteousness and reject the life-changing light that Jesus offers.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/28-07-2024-malachi-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/

What Doest Thou Here?

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And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah? 1 Kings 19:9.

Elijah’s retreat on Mount Horeb, though hidden from man, was known to God; and the weary and discouraged prophet was not left to struggle alone with the powers of darkness that were pressing upon him….

God met His tried servant with the inquiry, “What doest thou here, Elijah?” I sent you to the brook Cherith and afterward to the widow of Sarepta. I commissioned you to return to Israel and to stand before the idolatrous priests on Carmel, and I girded you with strength to guide the chariot of the king to the gate of Jezreel. But who sent you on this hasty flight into the wilderness? What errand have you here? …

Much depends on the unceasing activity of those who are true and loyal, and for this reason Satan puts forth every possible effort to thwart the divine purpose to be wrought out through the obedient. He causes some to lose sight of their high and holy mission, and to become satisfied with the pleasures of this life…. Others he causes to flee in discouragement from duty, because of opposition or persecution…. To every child of God whose voice the enemy of souls has succeeded in silencing, the question is addressed, “What doest thou here?” I commissioned you to go into all the world and preach the gospel, to prepare a people for the day of God. Why are you here? …

Of families, as of individuals, the question is asked, “What doest thou here?” In many churches there are families well instructed in the truths of God’s word, who might widen the sphere of their influence by moving to places in need of the ministry they are capable of giving. God calls for Christian families to go into the dark places of the earth and work wisely and perseveringly for those who are enshrouded in spiritual gloom…. For the sake of worldly advantage, for the sake of acquiring scientific knowledge, men are willing to venture into pestilential regions and to endure hardship and privation. Where are those who are willing to do as much for the sake of telling others of the Saviour? 49Ibid., 167-173.
Conflict and Courage p. 214
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Prayer Requests
—-Please pray for me. I get these annoying migraines and am sensitive to the sun and other light sources. Danita
—-Family in need of prayers as massive wildfire is threatening their home. Lissa
—-Please continue praying for my former daughter in law. She’s still fighting for her life with Sepsis. Please pray for her Eternal Salvation and physical healing and please pray for her children. Thank you so much. Connie
—-Please continue to pray for David who is in the hospital. Rose
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Dear Friends,

When Ronnie Jay was a little boy, he loved his little sister more than anything. When she was born, he was delighted and wanted to hold her and cuddle her. Since he had just had his third birthday a few days earlier, I cautioned him never to pick her up by himself and told him that if he sat on the sofa, I would let him hold her. He beamed with happiness as I placed Esther Marie in his arms. From that moment, a special friendship developed between them.

As Esther Marie grew and was able to play, Ronnie Jay’s joy knew no bounds. They were constant companions. They had wonderful times together throughout their childhood. When she got a little older and I would tell her to pick up her toys, Ronnie Jay would pick them up for her. If I told her to clean her room, he would do it out of his love for her. Like all children, Esther Marie would sometimes disobey. Ronnie Jay would beg me to punish him instead. (Of course, I didn’t do that.)

Ronnie Jay’s desire to keep his little sister from the punishment she deserved would make me think of our Dear Saviour, Who volunteered to suffer the punishment that we deserve. Think of it! The Great Ruler of the Universe, the One equal with the Father, left all of the glories of Heaven, “made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth.” Phil 2:5-10

The One Whom all Heaven adored humbled Himself and lived a life of constant self-denial, a life of service, a life of humility. From the time of His birth, the Romans tried to destroy Him. The priests and rulers plotted to kill Him, although they could not until the right time had come. Daniel prophesied, “And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself…And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease” Daniel 9:26,27 What an important prophetic week that was! For three and a half years, our Dear Saviour walked through the land preaching “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matt 3:2 He “went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.” Acts 10:38 He not only lived a perfect life, but He laid down his life for us, that we might have live eternally in His glorious kingdom. What love! What wonderful love! Then three and a half years later Stephen became the first Christian martyr. From that time of persecution, Jesus’ followers scattered far from Jerusalem and the gospel began to be preached to the Gentiles.

Moreover, this very same Jesus, Who sacrificed His all for us, wants to be our constant companion. He wants to share in every aspect of our life. He loves us with an everlasting love and draws us to Himself with lovingkindness. (Jer 31:1) He is even now standing at our heart’s door pleading for entrance that He may dwell within us. He says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Rev 3:20 May we joyfully open our heart’s door to Him is my prayer.

Rose

Source: https://rosesdevotional.org/what-doest-thou-here-2.html

How Forgiveness Transformed Daniel’s Life

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Discover how Daniel, once feeling unworthy of forgiveness, found peace and joy through daily study and baptism. Watch his transformative journey from guilt to living for Christ. Hit that like button, leave a comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories!
#FaithJourney #Forgiveness #Baptism #awr #adventistworldradio About our channel
We are Adventist World Radio, dedicated to sending the gospel to every corner of the world, even in the most remote and inaccessible locations. Through radio broadcasts, Cell Phone Evangelism, Godpods, and Digital Evangelism on various social media platforms, we're striving to reach millions across the world in their native languages. Since we started broadcasting back in 1975, we've seen and heard some truly inspirational stories of people who've experienced life-changing encounters with God. Regardless of their beliefs or professions, we have seen God reach a pagan chieftain, a witch, a professional assassin, and even rebels. Witness God’s work at AWR, from broadcast to baptism. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pqHFAlWGRs

This Is How Radio Changed Armand’s Life

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Armand and Clarice moved to Antan and Arevo, where they met a radio broadcaster who had unknowingly guided their faith for over 20 years. Discover how this voice from Adventist World Radio transformed their lives, leading Armand to become a dedicated missionary. Hit that like button, leave a comment, and subscribe for more amazing stories! #FaithJourney #RadioInspiration #MissionaryLife #awr #adventistworldradio About our channel
We are Adventist World Radio, dedicated to sending the gospel to every corner of the world, even in the most remote and inaccessible locations. Through radio broadcasts, Cell Phone Evangelism, Godpods, and Digital Evangelism on various social media platforms, we're striving to reach millions across the world in their native languages. Since we started broadcasting back in 1975, we've seen and heard some truly inspirational stories of people who've experienced life-changing encounters with God. Regardless of their beliefs or professions, we have seen God reach a pagan chieftain, a witch, a professional assassin, and even rebels. Witness God’s work at AWR, from broadcast to baptism. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mQtJTZ2zag

The Book of Mark – Lesson 5.Miracles Around the Lake | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series THE BOOK OF MARK with Pastor Mark Finley  |
Lesson 5.Miracles Around the Lake  |
Jesus’ Miracles at the Sea of Galilee: Revelation of His Divine Power and Mercy  |
Lesson 5 focuses on the extraordinary miracles Jesus performed around the Sea of Galilee and their profound meanings. These stories demonstrate Jesus’ divine power over nature, illness, and evil spirits. We witness Him calming a storm, healing a demon-possessed man, and feeding 5,000 people with only a few loaves and fishes. Moreover, His walking on water showcases His authority over the elements. These miracles reveal not only His power but also His compassion and mission to spiritually redeem people.
Memory Text: Mark 5:19 – “However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, ‘Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you’.”
Content:
5.1 Calming a Storm
Jesus’ Power Over Nature: Calming the Storm as a Sign of His Divinity
In Mark 4:35-41, the disciples experience a dramatic demonstration of Jesus’ divine power when He calms a violent storm. After a long day of teaching, Jesus, tired, sleeps in the boat while the storm rages. When the disciples panic and wake Him, He commands the wind and waves to be still, and a great calm ensues. This act shows that Jesus has power over the forces of nature, as described in Psalm 104:1-9, a characteristic of Yahweh. The disciples’ reaction—fear and amazement at His authority—helps the reader recognize that Jesus is the Son of God, who has control over creation. This story encourages us to trust in Jesus’ divine power and care in times of fear.
5.2 Can You Hear a Whisper Above a Shout?
The Quiet Power of Jesus: Hearing the Whisper for Help Over the Scream of Demons
In Mark 5:1-20, Jesus encounters a demon-possessed man living among the tombs, who cannot be restrained by anyone. Despite the demons’ loud resistance, Jesus perceives the man’s silent plea for help. By casting out the demons, Jesus displays His unparalleled power over evil. The demons, recognizing Jesus as the Son of God, flee into a herd of pigs, which then plunge into the sea. This story highlights the great battle between good and evil and shows that Jesus brings healing and deliverance even amidst chaos and impurity.
5.3 On the Roller Coaster With Jesus
The Desperate Plea: Jairus Kneels Before Jesus to Beg for Help for His Dying Daughter
In Mark 5:21-24, Jairus, a synagogue leader, shows remarkable faith and humility. Despite his position and the general hostility of religious leaders towards Jesus, Jairus desperately kneels before Jesus and asks for healing for his dying daughter. His actions demonstrate his deep love as a father and his belief in Jesus’ ability to help. Jesus responds immediately and goes with Jairus without hesitation. This scene emphasizes the urgency and faith that motivate Jairus to seek Jesus’ help, despite potential social repercussions.
5.4 Rejection and Reception
Rejection in Nazareth: The Difficulty of Accepting Jesus as Teacher and Healer
In Mark 6:1-6, the people of Jesus’ hometown, Nazareth, reject Him because they know Him only as the carpenter and Mary’s son. They are surprised and offended by His transformation into a teacher and healer and cannot accept His wisdom and power. There is also some hostility since Jesus performed most of His miracles in Capernaum and had conflicts with His family.
In contrast, Mark 6:7-30 describes the sending out of the twelve apostles to spread Jesus’ message and the beheading of John the Baptist. While the disciples travel lightly and rely on people’s support, John ends up isolated and brutally executed. John’s death highlights the danger and suffering Jesus’ followers may also face, hinting at the upcoming crisis for Jesus Himself.
5.5 A Different Kind of Messiah
A Different Kind of Messiah: Jesus’ Miraculous Feeding of the 5000 and the Revelation of His True Mission
In Mark 6:34-52, Jesus and His disciples face the challenge of feeding a large crowd of 5,000 people. While the disciples want to send the crowd away to fend for themselves, Jesus solves the problem by miraculously multiplying five loaves and two fish to feed everyone. This account reflects the expectations of a Messiah who would liberate and lead Israel, but Jesus reveals a different kind of Messiah. Instead of political power, He shows spiritual care and revelation by withdrawing to pray and later walking on water, underscoring His divine nature.
5.6 Summary
Jesus’ Divine Power and Compassion at the Sea of Galilee
Lesson 5 describes various miracles around the Sea of Galilee that reveal Jesus’ divine power and compassion. Jesus calms a storm, demonstrating His authority over nature, which awes His disciples. He heals a demon-possessed man, showing His power over evil. In feeding the 5,000, He reveals His ability to provide in times of need while correcting false Messianic expectations. Finally, Jesus walks on water, highlighting His divine nature and astonishing His disciples once more. These miracles illustrate that Jesus is not just a teacher but the Son of God, who came to spiritually redeem people.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-book-of-mark-lesson-5-miracles-around-the-lake-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

SdS – Il Vangelo di Marco – Lezione 5 – audio

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MIRACOLI NEI PRESSI DEL LAGO Approfondimento della lezione della Scuola del Sabato numero 5 – III trimestre 2024 con Mariarosa Cavalieri, Mirela Pascu e Nino Plano. La voce SdS – Il Vangelo di Marco – Lezione 5 – audio (https://hopemedia.it/sds-il-vangelo-di-marco-lezione-5-audio/) è stata pubblicata per la prima volta su HopeMedia Italia (https://hopemedia.it) . Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeXNdBf3Ujw

Sunday: Calming a Storm

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Daily Lesson for Sunday 28th of July 2024

Read Mark 4:35-41. What happens in this story, and what lessons can we take from it about who Jesus is?

At the beginning of Mark 4:1-41, Jesus steps into a boat to teach the crowd on the shore. In Mark 4:10-12, it seems He may have gotten out of the boat and talked with the disciples privately. Now, after a long day of teaching, the disciples take Jesus in the boat “as He was,” in other words, very tired.

Jesus Calming the Storm

Image © Review & Herald Publishing at Goodsalt.com

He immediately falls asleep on the boat’s cushion, which would be in the stern of the boat. A great storm arises on the lake, and the boat is at risk of sinking when the disciples awake Him. Dramatically, Jesus commands the wind and waves to cease. A great calm settles over the lake. Understandably, the disciples are deeply afraid at the display of divine power.

Read Psalms 104:1-9. How does the picture of Yahweh here compare with Christ calming the storm?

The story in Mark 4:35-41 fits within a common biblical pattern: that of a “theophany”—the appearance of God or one of His angels. Five characteristics are common to these events: (1) the display of divine power, (2) human fear, (3) the command “Do not fear,” (4) the words of revelation for which God or the angel appeared, and (5) human response to the revelation. Four of the five are present in this story—the calming of the storm is the display of divine power, the disciples’ fear is the human fear. The question, “Why are you so afraid?” is the “Do not fear.” The disciples’ question, “Who then is this?” is the human response. What is missing is the words of revelation. This missing detail plays into the revelation/secrecy motif that runs through the entire book, where the truth about Jesus will come out. Here the disciples’ question, “Who then is this that the wind and the sea obey Him?” pushes the reader to fill in the answer of the missing words of revelation—He is the Son of God, the Lord Himself.

Think about the power of God. How can you learn to lean on this power and to trust it in all things in your life?
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Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/24c-05-calming-a-storm/

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